Garfield County Libraries have a full lineup of programs later this July, including urban sketching, STEM learning with students from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, wildlife education, and community gatherings over coffee.

Rifle branch library:

The art of urban sketching can be a mindful practice that sharpens observation skills, calms the mind, lifts the spirit and fosters a deeper connection to the world around you. Liz Karr, an experienced urban sketcher, will be holding mini-lessons focused on a variety of techniques, styles and subjects. Meetings will be at 10 a.m. on Thursdays from July 24 to Aug. 28 at the Rifle branch library. This series is free for adults. 

Silt Branch Library:

The Pauline S. Schneegas Wildlife Foundation is sending a representative to the Silt Branch Library at 6 p.m.  Tuesday, July 22 to discuss resident birds, how to predator-proof chicken coops and best practices for coexisting with wildlife. 

Glenwood Springs Branch Library:

The MIT Spokes: STEM Learning Festival is coming to Glenwood Springs from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  Monday, July 21 for teens and youth to do fun, interactive and educational STEM activities. This festival will include information and activities involving machine learning, data encryption, states of matter, DIY bottle rockets and 2D design to 3D printing. This event is presented by the student-run Spokes initiative from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. This event is free to the public. 

Carbondale Branch Library:

Ready for Mountain Fair? If not, get your outfit ready by bringing a white cotton shirt, bandana or other clothing item to the Carbondale Branch Library at 5:30-6 p.m.  Wednesday, July 23 and tie-dye it. All dyes, gloves and supplies will be provided and no experience is necessary. All ages are welcome, although children under 8 are recommended to be accompanied by an adult. 

All branches series: 

Adults throughout the community are invited to join the library for coffee and conversations, with coffee provided, to meet friends and neighbors for a unique opportunity to chat. Conversations in English will be at the plaza of the Glenwood Springs Branch Library from 10-11:30 a.m.  Thursday, July 17 and July 31. Conversations in Spanish will be held by the fireplace of the Rifle Branch Library from 12:30-1:30 p.m.  Thursday, July 25 and Thursday, Aug. 8. 

Mr. Kneel is coming to the Garfield libraries to show off his beatbox and rhyme skills to families. The first two events will be at 1 p.m. at the Glenwood Springs Library, followed by a  4 p.m. performance at the Carbondale branch on Tuesday, July 22. The next events will be at 11 a.m. in New Castle and 2 p.m. at the Silt branch on Wednesday, July 23. The final two events will be at 11 a.m. at the Parachute branch and 2 p.m. at the Rifle branch on Thursday, July 24.